Diocese of San Carlos de Venezuela
The Diocese of San Carlos de Venezuela, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, is an active diocese encompassing the state of Cojedes in Venezuela. Founded in 1977 by Pope Paul VI, it is led by Bishop Jesús Tomás Zárraga Colmenares as of 2023. As part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Valencia en Venezuela, the diocese serves a growing Catholic community in a region with a rich history, with 24 parishes and 3 missions. A notable aspect is its vibrant cultural heritage, reflecting its dynamic role in fostering Catholic faith in the region.
Stored in Cargo: Diocese of San Carlos de Venezuela
| Diocese: Diocese of San Carlos de Venezuela | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Suffragan diocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Valencia en Venezuela |
| Metropolitan Archdiocese: | Archdiocese of Valencia en Venezuela |
| Country: | Venezuela |
| Region: | Cojedes |
| Bishop: | Jesús Tomás Zárraga Colmenares |
| Existence: | 1977– |
Establishment
The Diocese of San Carlos de Venezuela was established on April 16, 1977, by Pope Paul VI to serve the growing Catholic population in the state of Cojedes, splitting from the Archdiocese of Valencia en Venezuela.[1]
History
The diocese has its roots in the early Christian missions in the region, with the first Catholic presence dating back to the 17th century. Over the years, the diocese has grown and developed, with various bishops contributing to its growth and development. In 2006, the diocese celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its history.[2]
Geography
The diocese spans the entire state of Cojedes, including the municipalities of Anzoátegui, Falcón, Girardot, Lima Blanco, Pao de San Juan Bautista, Ricaurte, San Carlos, and Tinaquillo. It is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Valencia en Venezuela.[3]
Mother Church
The Catedral de San Carlos Borromeo in San Carlos, a beautiful structure built in the 18th century, serves as the diocese's mother church.[4]
Leadership
Current Bishop
Bishop Jesús Tomás Zárraga Colmenares has served since 2023. A former priest, he focuses on pastoral care and community outreach.[5]
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jesús Tomás Zárraga Colmenares | 2023–present | Current Bishop |
| Rafael Ramón Conde Alfonzo | 2019–2023 | Transferred to Maracaibo |
| Jesús González de Zárate Salas | 1998–2019 | Retired |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The diocese leans towards a balanced approach (rating: 3.0), offering a mix of traditional and contemporary liturgical practices, emphasizing social outreach alongside traditional teachings, and led by a bishop with a moderate stance.[6]
Statistics
The diocese covers 14,800 km², serves 450,000 Catholics across 24 parishes, and has a total population of 700,000.[7]
Religious Communities
Jesuits
The Jesuits operate a school and support parish ministries in the diocese. Address: San Carlos, Cojedes.[8]
Vocations
Vocations Contact for Diocese of San Carlos de Venezuela (Diocese) • Both
- Contact: Rev. Juan Pérez
- Email: vocations@diocesedesancarlos.org
- Phone: (+58) 246-1234567
- Website: Official Vocations Page
- Notes: General vocations office
- Last Verified: May 22, 2026
Parishes
| Diocese of San Carlos de Venezuela |
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The Diocese of San Carlos de Venezuela, covering the state of Cojedes, is a vibrant missionary diocese established in 1977 within the Latin Rite. It serves diverse communities through 24 parishes across 3 deaneries, with a central cathedral and various churches offering spiritual and communal support.[9]
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The diocese manages 10 schools:
| School Name | City | Type | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colegio San Carlos | San Carlos | High School | Colegio San Carlos |
Community Outreach
The diocese's Caritas program provides social services to over 10,000 people annually.[10]
Notable Events or Figures
- In 2006, the diocese celebrated its 25th anniversary, drawing over 5,000 attendees.[11]
Fun facts
Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of San Carlos de Venezuela:
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Diocesan photos
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References
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